This charming county is located in New York State. The name Chautauqua is a word from the Erie language which has since been lost, and this influence is also visible in the famous Lake Erie.
The county is famous for having many miles of Lake Erie shoreline, and six lakes in total. Because of this, it has become a popular location for a variety of outdoor recreational activities, like boating and fishing.
Chautauqua County is also home to some fascinating historical sites and museums, such as the Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Museum and the Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History. Many visitors to Chautauqua County enjoy wine trails and visit the many wineries in the area for tastings.
Read on for our list of favorite things to do in Chautauqua County, New York.
The 30 Most Popular Things To Do In Chautauqua County, New York
30. McClurg Museum-Chautauqua County Historical Society
4.3 (4 reviews)
This museum is based in an old Federal-Style Mansion that preserves the local history of life in Chautauqua County. It is a great place for both adults and children to learn about this history in an authentic setting with truly amazing exhibits.
Credit: Greg Cole, Google Maps
Location: 20 E Main Street Westfield NY
Tel: 716 326 2977
Web Address: http://cchsmcclurg.org/
29. Dunkirk Historical Museum
4.2 (9 reviews)
The Dunkirk Museum is dedicated to the preservation of the arts, culture, and history of the surrounding city. Their exhibits are focused on all three aspects and includes a wide variety of artistic artifacts. They also have an extensive photography collection including more than 15,000 pieces.
Credit: Dunkirk Historical Museum, Google Maps
Location: 513 Washington Ave Dunkirk NY
Tel: 716 366 3797
Web Address: https://dunkirkhistoricalmuseum.org/
28. Earl Cardot Eastside overland trail
4.8 (12 reviews)
This part of the trail system covers around 19 miles and provides opportunities for camping, cross-country skiing, mountain biking, and hiking. A significant part of this trail is part of private land belonging to several different owners. When making use of this trail please be respectful of private land, but feel free to enjoy the gorgeous scenery and well-maintained trail.
Credit: robert tate, Google Maps
Location: 3362 Burnham Road Cassadaga NY
27. Lily Dale Assembly Museum
4.7 (24 reviews)
This museum commemorates the founding of Lily Dale as a spiritualist movement. See exclusive exhibits related to the Fox family and a number of other central spiritualist movements. This museum also holds one of the most impressive suffragettes exhibits in the country.
Credit: Plazak, License, Wikimedia commons
Location: 16 18 Library Street Lily Dale NY
Tel: 716 969 4825
Web Address: https://facebook.com/LilyDaleMuseum/
26. Jamestown River Walk
4.4 (29 reviews)
This urban walkway follows the Chadakoin River and is great for outdoor recreation without having to leave the confines of the town itself. Rollerblading, biking, jogging, and walking are common activities on the walkway. You can also access several parks via this walkway.
Credit: Kiwi Taco, Google Maps
Location: 203 W 2nd Street Jamestown NY
25. Lawson Center Boating Museum
4.9 (36 reviews)
As the name suggests, this is a museum dedicated to the boating history of the Chautauqua Lake region. The museum resides within the building that was the first business to introduce smaller, more affordable, boats into the Chautauqua Lake family. When visiting expect some impressive exhibits to explore and also take in the importance of the building you find yourself in.
Credit: Lawson Center, Google Maps
Location: 73 Lakeside Dr Bemus Point NY
Tel: 716 386 3355
Web Address: https://thelawsoncenter.org/
24. Quincy Cellars
4.2 (49 reviews)
Situated on an absolutely gorgeous estate, this boutique winery does not disappoint. The banquet facilities are fantastic and their selection of handmade wines are to die for. On the property you can also take a stroll around a pond and take in the ancient trees that flank the winery.
Credit: Quincy Cellars, Google Maps
Location: 10606 W Main Street Ripley NY
Tel: 716 736 2021
Web Address: http://quincycellars.com/
23. Fred J. Cusimano Westside Overland Trail
4.6 (59 reviews)
The moderately challenging trail spans across an impressive 38 km (23.6 miles) and will take around 9 hours to complete. The trail can be popular during season but is often nice and quiet outside of peak times. Dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash. Camping and birding are popular along the trail as well.
Location: 7943 8199 Hannum Road Mayville NY
22. Willow Creek Winery
4.7 (72 reviews)
Unlike many other wineries, this one offers a full grill menu in addition to the usual charcuterie. They also serve both wines and sangria. Due to its popularity, it is strongly recommended to make a reservation before your visit.
Credit: Brian Baker, Google Maps
Location: 2627 Chapin Road Silver Creek NY
Tel: 716 934 9463
Web Address: http://willowcreekwines.net/
21. Sunset Bay State Marine Park
4.4 (78 reviews)
This site is accessible and can accommodate wheelchairs. It is an ideal location for anglers, picnickers, and boaters. Because the park is only of modest size and remains popular you will need to make reservations for the slip and fishing spots well in advance. They open the previous year and we recommend reserving as early as possible.
Credit: Andrew Griesmann, Google Maps
Location: 12952 Allegany Road Irving NY
Tel: 716 934 2375
Web Address: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/194/details.aspx
20. Fenton Historical Center
4.7 (79 reviews)
Even the building that this historical center is in is iconic. It does wonders at preserving the unique history of the area. It also preserves the cultural institution of the town and is dedicated to education to ensure that a love of history is passed on to the new generation.
Credit: Fenton Historical Center, Google Maps
Location: 67 Washington Street Jamestown NY
Tel: 716 664 6256
Web Address: http://fentonhistorycenter.org/
19. Liberty Vineyards & Winery
4.6 (91 reviews)
Another attraction in the Chautauqua Lake Erie Region is this eclectic vineyard. Their tasting room is quite popular and the gift shop also sells gift baskets online. They also do snacks with the tastings like chips and salsa or charcuterie boards.
Credit: Liberty Vineyards & Winery, Google Maps
Location: 2861 US 20 Sheridan NY
Tel: 716 672 4520
Web Address: http://libertywinery.com/
18. Woodbury Winery & Vineyards
4.7 (100 reviews)
This winery is dedicated to fun. During the summer there is volleyball and wine slush along with tastings. The outdoor seating is quite popular. Reservations are required for larger groups, but walk-ins are accommodated for groups smaller than 10.
Credit: Woodbury Winery & Vineyards, Google Maps
Location: 3215 S Roberts Road Fredonia NY
Tel: 716 679 9463
Web Address: http://woodburywinery.com/
17. Lake Erie Grape Discovery Center
4.7 (100 reviews)
This Lake Erie destination is dedicated to the grape industry. It is the center of the Lake Erie Concord Grape Belt. It is also an official New York State Heritage Area. Teaching the public about grapes increases interest in the local industry and shows what more value the grape industry carries aside from wine making.
Credit: Lynn McCord, Google Maps
Location: 8305 US 20 Westfield NY
Tel: 716 326 2003
Web Address: http://grapediscoverycenter.com/
16. Panama Rocks Scenic Park
5.0 (135 reviews)
The Panama Rocks Scenic Park is close to both Lake Erie and Chautauqua Lake and is a fantastic destination for relaxing outdoor recreation. It is the perfect destination for a relaxing hike and gorgeous views of the natural beauty of Chautauqua County, NY. In addition to hiking there is also an axe-throwing competition, the Panama Rocks Foliage Festival, and the Wild American Nature Festival to enjoy here. Keep an eye on their calendar for exact dates.
Credit: Mary Beth Lovejoy, Google Maps
15. Merritt Estate Winery
4.7 (139 reviews)
This winery facilitates tastings as well as snacks like specialty popcorn. During the summer months you can enjoy delicious slushies before exploring the grounds of the wine estate.
Credit: Merritt Estate Winery, Google Maps
Location: 2264 King Road Forestville NY
Tel: 888 965 4800
Web Address: http://merrittestatewinery.com/
14. Noble Winery
4.6 (147 reviews)
This winery is situated on the Lake Erie wine trail and is known for its brilliant views of the surrounding Lake Erie expanses used to farm wine grapes. The wines produced here will suit any palate, even the more adventurous among us.
Credit: Dennis Smith, Google Maps
Location: 8630 Hardscrabble Road Westfield NY
Tel: 716 326 9463
Web Address: http://noblewinery.com/
13. Chautauqua Gorge State Forest
4.6 (176 reviews)
The Chautauqua Gorge State Forest is a fantastically magical place to explore. You can ski in the winter, hike, go fishing, and hunt during the hunting season. Only a small part of the Gorge itself is owned by the state and a large part of it is private property. That being said, the part that is owned by state parks is open to the public for recreation.
Credit: Andy Arthur, License, Flickr
Location: Mayville NY
Tel: 716 363 2052
Web Address: http://dec.ny.gov/lands/42257.html
12. Luensman Overview Park
4.8 (216 reviews)
This overlook encompasses 70 acres. When the day is clear you should be able to see the Canadian Shore from the outlook point. In summer months you can watch the sunset. During your visit you can also take a stroll through the forest.
Credit: Donald Doran, Google Maps
Location: DIRECTIONS 7896 Thayer Road Portland NY
Tel: 716 763 8928
Web Address: http://tourchautauqua.com/Where-To-Play/Trails-And-Parks/Luensman-Overview–Park.aspx
11. Bergman Park
4.6 (249 reviews)
This large city park is one of the favorite attractions in the area for ball sports enthusiasts. In addition to playgrounds, pavilions, picnic tables, and cycling trails, there is a large number of ball fields including an ever-expanding disc golf course.
Credit: Michael Jabczynski, Google Maps
Location: 487 Baker Street Jamestown NY
Tel: 716 483 0609
Web Address: https://tourchautauqua.com/destinations/bergman-park
10. Audubon Community Nature Center
4.8 (306 reviews)
The perfect destination for love of nature and learning. Experience the natural history of the area through many exhibits dedicated to education. You can visit animal ambassadors and see the large variety of indigenous trees in the arboretum. Hiking trails in the park are popular and easy enough for everyone to enjoy.
Location: 1600 Riverside Road Jamestown NY
Tel: 716 569 2345
Web Address: http://auduboncnc.org/
9. Point Gratiot Park
4.6 (402 reviews)
With fishing and biking trails, a playground, a permanent lifeguard, ballfields, pavilion, and picnic areas, this is a must-see for outdoor recreation. This park is extremely popular among bird watchers, but is also a great place to bring kids.
Credit: Steven Krauza, Google Maps
Location: NY 5 & Point Dr W Dunkirk NY
Tel: 716 366 3262
Web Address: http://tourchautauqua.com/Where-To-Play/Beaches/Point-Gratiot-Park.aspx
8. Long Point State Park on Lake Chautauqua
4.5 (468 reviews)
Long Point reaches out into Chautauqua Lake like a finger. There are no camping facilities here, but you can picnic, BBQ, launch your boat, or have a swim in Chautauqua Lake. There is also a short hiking trail and ample opportunity for bird watchers.
Credit: David Davis, Google Maps
Location: 4459 NY 430 Bemus Point NY
Tel: 716 386 2722
Web Address: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/109/details.aspx
7. Barcelona Lighthouse
4.7 (639 reviews)
Barcelona Lighthouse is an extremely important historical fixture here as it was the first gas-powered lighthouse in the US. Although it is no longer officially used, it remains lit.
Credit: Midgetlegs, License, Wikimedia commons
Location: 8234 E Lake Road Westfield NY
Tel: 716 326 2360
Web Address: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/barcelonalighthouse
6. Lucille Ball Memorial Park
4.5 (777 reviews)
Also home to the Lucille Ball memorial statue (both the scary and the new), this park as a whole offers further opportunity for ball players, picnickers, a playground for children, and a nice relaxing walk along the shores of Chautauqua Lake.
Location: 21 Boulevard Ave Jamestown NY
Tel: 716 487 4175
Web Address: http://tourchautauqua.com/Where-To-Play/Fishing/Lucille-Ball-Memorial-Park.aspx
Our Top picks
5. Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History
4.4 (73 reviews)
Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History is a unique setting that marries nature conservation with art. Exhibitions use natural eco-friendly materials to create art that draws attention to conservation issues in the area. Keep an eye on their calendar for seasonal events.
Credit: Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History, Google Maps
Location: 311 Curtis Street Jamestown NY
Tel: 716 665 2473
Web Address: http://rtpi.org/
4. Chautauqua Lake
4.7 (146 reviews)
With a shoreline spanning more than 41 miles, Chautauqua Lake is guaranteed to offer something for everyone. From a selection of museums and other attractions around it, to nature conservation celebrated by the arts, and various wineries, visiting this lake will not disappoint.
Credit: Andre Carrotflower, License, Wikimedia commons
3. Chautauqua Institution
4.4 (168 reviews)
What can we say about the Chautauqua Institute? It is conveniently located for a visit and offers the opportunity to explore things guided by experts. Learning is the name of the game and the programs offered by the institute are second to none. From education to entertainment this upstate New York attraction provides an essential service to visitors. Whether you are taking a road trip or a quick day trip, you will be glad for your visit.
Credit: Chris Light, License, Wikimedia commons
Location: 1 Ames Ave Chautauqua NY
Tel: 716 357 6250
Web Address: http://chq.org/
2. Midway State Park
4.4 (600 reviews)
An amusement park on the shores of Chautauqua Lake Midway has a lot to offer for the whole family. There are great restaurants in the area and a number of amenities to enjoy while you explore the park.
Credit: Pubdog, License, Wikimedia commons
Location: 4859 NY 430 Bemus Point NY
Tel: 716 386 3165
Web Address: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/midway
1. National Comedy Center
4.8 (1,088 reviews)
When you purchase a day-pass to the National Comedy Center you gain access to both museums and their other amenities. You are free to tour and explore the museums at your own pace and take in every fun fact about comedy that you can find. Learn more about the iconic Love Lucy and other essential comedy installments while you explore the large complex. The National Comedy Center is not to be missed on your next visit.
Credit: Michael McVinney, License, Wikimedia commons
Location: 203 W 2nd Street Jamestown NY
Tel: 716 484 2222
Web Address: https://comedycenter.org/
Final Words:
Thank you for reading our list of the best things to do in Chautauqua County, New York! We hope it helped you plan the perfect itinerary for your next trip to this fantastic destination. Happy travels!
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